Photo by Mitch Teemley
Why do we need to believe in him? One night many years ago, I ran into a young woman “witnessing” on a street corner. She told me Jesus loved me, but that I needed “to believe in him in order to be saved.” I asked her why. She seemed uncertain how to answer, so I continued, “I believe there’s a God-force or something out there. So, if he/she/it loves me, why isn’t that enough?”
Here’s how she might have answered:
James 2:19 tells us that demons believe in the existence of God. How could they not? He’s “the enemy!” But he doesn’t tell us they believe in God. Which may seem insignificant, but that missing word is everything.
Believing someone means believing they’re stating facts correctly, even though you may take no action in response to that belief.
But believing in someone means trusting in that person themself, and acting in accord with that trust. In fact, the more literal translation of Acts 16:31 says, “Believe on the Lord Jesus.” Why? Because, while there are numerous in words in the biblical Greek, this specific in word indicates an active response, an action taken.
A year after that young woman spoke with me, I took a life-changing leap of faith. I’d begun reading the words of Jesus and come to believe that, as the Apostle Peter said, Jesus had “the words of eternal life,” that he himself, and not just his words, was Life. And so I took action. I leaped.
Have you?
I’m so encouraged to hear that story. I have been praying for an old school friend for years and I do hope that one day I can share the hope that I have, in full.
🧡🙏
What a great description of faith and your own witness to the life change that occurs. When CS Lewis talked about diving headfirst (The Pilgrims Regress), I was challenged by his fresh perspective as a new “Christian” novelist and how that may appear to other worldviews. Definitely active.
Right you are, Teresa. Lewis has a refreshingly non-“Christianese” perspective that speaks to so many people.
Thanks Mitch… While we cannot “Do” anything to Provide we must believe and receive to Possess… John 9 the blind man had to obey Jesus’ command to go to the pool and wash… and then “he came back seeing”
Exactly.
It’s a big question. I like your views on the subject Mitch.
🙏
Very good! May I share a link to your blog on mine?
Of course, Cindy (sorry I didn’t reply sooner). 🧡
I can honestly say I know the Lord is with me each day. Fighting anxiety most of my life and winding up all alone, I chose to become reclusive, and now over 2 years I feel safe in my four walls, anxiety much better, I pray twice a day, and thank the Lord for all the blessings and good that come my way.
🧡
What a profound distinction between believing someone and believing in someone, Mitch.
That single word really changes everything.
Thank you for sharing such a personal and inspiring leap of faith
My privilege, Luisa. 🧡
🙏🌷🙏
I believe.
Yes. Sixty-two years ago; and what an amazing journey it has been ever since! “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” He is faithful to keep His promises!
Amen, Ed!
I recently rewatched Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones again, and one of the many things attributed to longevity is the right outlook and that being a part of a spiritual community can add years to your life.
Not to mention, for many, eternal life.
Pingback: Why Do We Need to Believe in Him? | Talmidimblogging
Thank you. Really.
My privilege, Tere.
Amen! Thanks for sharing such a powerful encounter.
My privilege, Nikki.
YES! And my life has not been the same since!
🧡
Amen Mitch. Forty-seven years with Jesus!
🧡
Amen 🙏🏽
Because he is our savior.
You frame this question with such gentle clarity — not as an argument, but as an invitation to think about trust, meaning, and the way belief shapes how we move through the world. Your reflections often open a quiet space for readers to pause, and this one felt especially grounded in that calm, thoughtful tone.
I have taken the leap. My active response is not all I want it to be yet, but God encourages me daily that He is pleased with what I can and am giving. His grace makes it grow everyday.
🧡
Amen! YES, I have. Mitch, such a profound piece, as always, dear friend. Your life and testimony sincerely help us all! 💕
Back at you tenfold, dear friend❣
Yes. After a person was unable to answer my questions, he said if I really wanted to know the answers, I should read the Bible all the way through. I took the challenge, got answers to my questions, and accepted Christ as Lord and Savior when I got to Romans.
🧡